Congress' Bold Promises Questioned: Welfare Scheme Setbacks in Karnataka and Telangana

As the Maharashtra assembly elections approach, Congress unveiled its manifesto, featuring ambitious welfare initiatives like a ₹3,000 monthly allowance for women and farmer loan waivers. To build voter trust, the party is highlighting similar schemes successfully implemented in Congress-ruled states through advertisements.

 

So, let us analyze the governance of Congress in its ruling states.

Karnataka's Welfare Promises: Falling Short?

In Karnataka, Congress launched high-profile schemes such as the Grihalakshmi Yojana, which promised direct cash transfers to women. According to BJP leaders, the scheme has faced significant setbacks, including weeks of delays and technical issues disrupting its rollout. Similarly, the Griha Jyoti Yojana, aimed at providing 200 units of free electricity, has drawn criticism. Electricity rates have reportedly risen by ₹3 per unit, increasing financial pressure on consumers.

The Anna Bhagya Yojana, which promised 10 kg of free rice to over 1.15 crore beneficiaries, also remains largely unfulfilled. Reports suggest that many recipients are receiving rice under the central Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana rather than the state-led initiative.

Shakti Yojana: Transport Woes and Financial Strain

The Shakti Yojana, offering free bus travel for women, has reportedly left Karnataka State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) in financial distress. To sustain the scheme, the government has allegedly cut bus services and delayed salaries for employees. Diesel shortages have compounded the issue, prompting Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to consider scaling back the program.

Unmet Job Promises and Budget Challenges

Congress' pledges of ₹3,000 for unemployed graduates and ₹1,500 for diploma holders have yet to materialize due to fiscal constraints. The delay in filling vacant government positions has further frustrated job seekers. BJP leaders also accuse Congress of diverting funds meant for marginalized communities, including SC and ST groups, leaving essential welfare measures incomplete.

Telangana's Struggles with Implementation

In Telangana, Congress faces similar accusations of unfulfilled promises. The Mahalakshmi Yojana, which pledged ₹2,500 monthly to women, remains unimplemented nearly a year into the government’s term. The Kalyan Lakshmi Yojana, which promised newly married women 10 grams of gold and ₹1 lakh, is plagued by delays, with thousands of applications stuck in verification. The Telangana High Court has even flagged the government's failure to deliver promised benefits.

Other initiatives, such as the Griha Jyoti scheme, Raitu Bharvasa (₹15,000 per acre for farmers), and Yuva Vikas Yojana, have struggled to progress beyond initial announcements. Congress’ promise of a ₹2 lakh farmer loan waiver has reportedly reached only 40% of its intended beneficiaries.